Vanilla is most popularly known for smelling and tasting nice to most, but there is more to vanilla essential oil than just being appealing to the nose.

What makes vanilla essential oil so special?

There are a lot of products in which vanilla essential oil can be found. For example, soap, shampoos and lotion have vanilla essential oil infused in them to add its medicinal benefits. It is even used in scented candles, air sprays and perfumes.

While it's not meant to be eaten in its pure state but used as flavoring in cakes, biscuits and other confectioneries, a lot of people find the smell of vanilla calming to the senses. Popular in Oriental-style perfumes, vanilla essential oil is found to be have aphrodisiac properties.

As the scent of vanilla essential oil is very relaxing, it is used to fight off several ailments through that which is called aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the usage of the scents of essential oils derived from plants to aid in curing disease. In aromatherapy, vanilla essential oil can cure many conditions like headaches and anxiety attacks. Moreover, aside from being an aphrodisiac, vanilla is also touted as a sedative, fever reducer and anti-depressant. You'll hear people say that the soothing ability of vanilla has a certain effect on comfort food like biscuits and ice cream.

Those with problems with nerves or falling asleep will surely love vanilla essential oil, as it helps relieve anxiety. Vanilla, with its tranquilizing effects, also helps in putting people to sleep and may even serve as a better, safer alternative to sleeping pills. Catch a whiff of vanilla as you head to bed, and you'll feel its sedating ability as, slowly and surely you head off to Dreamland.

Yet another benefit of vanilla essential oil is its role as an antidepressant. Feeling alone and that the world is against you after a very hard day? Sniff vanilla and feel your self being rejuvenated and brought back to life. Your day will literally be turned around after a moment.

How does vanilla essential oil work?

As mentioned above, merely sniffing vanilla essential oil does magic to the body, with its medicinal and relaxing effects both physically, emotionally and mentally.

In aromatherapy, aromatic molecules, the active ingredients in vanilla essential oil or any other aromatic oil, interact with the nasal cavity when ingested through the nose. Then, the molecules make their way to the limbic system of the brain. There, they are then transmitted through the endocrine and nervous systems. The aromatic molecules are then circulated through the bloodstream with hormones, and distributed along nerves scattered around the body.

How can I use vanilla essential oil?

You can use vanilla essential oil in a lot of ways. For one, you can add a few drops of this oil on a handkerchief or a piece of tissue. Hold it up to your nose and bask in the tranquilizing, soothing goodness of vanilla.

For softer skin, vanilla essential oil, mixed with peppermint essential oil can make a nice body scrub. Throw in these essential oils, some brown sugar, sweet almond oil and fine salt in a big bowl. Mix them well and place in an airtight container, then refrigerate. When taking a shower, take a handful of scrub then rub it in a circular motion on the skin.

Where can I get vanilla essential oil?

You can buy vanilla essential oil in herbal stores and other shops selling aromatherapy products. You may also find vanilla essential oil for sale online. The Ananda Apothecary, at anandaapothecary.com sells vanilla essential oil. Prices range from as low as $3.00 to $217.00 for 60 mL bottles.

What if I don't have vanilla essential oil?

As mentioned, vanilla essential oil is found in shampoo, soap, and other bath products. You don't need pure vanilla essential oil to feel its wonders; you just have to make sure that the products you're using contain organic vanilla essential oil.

Does vanilla essential oil have side effects?

Before resorting to any kind of alternative medicine, people with a history of allergies and pregnant women should consult their doctors. People using vanilla essential oil must also take care not to apply the oil directly on the skin, as it is highly concentrated. Before topical application, the essential oil must be mixed with base oil first.

It is also imperative that vanilla essential oil be not confused with the vanilla extract that's used in food. Vanilla essential oil is NOT edible, and the flavoring that's added to biscuits and ice cream is vanilla extract.

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Vanilla essential oil is perhaps one of the most effective substances that can bring about relaxation. So if you want peace of mind, you can count on this.